West Lothian man brutally attacked dog and left 'large swollen lumps' on his head

A man from West Lothian has been found guilty leaving “large swollen lumps” on his dog’s head in a “violent attack”.

Mark McGregor, 34, of Langside Drive, Polbeth, was banned from owning animals for ten years after admitting to striking his dog at Livingston Sheriff Court.

A witness called the Scottish SPCA on March 5, 2021, reporting that McGregor was violently striking his dog, called Murdo, in the back garden.

“The information surrounding the attack carried out on his dog was very graphic and of a serious nature,” said Scottish SPCA inspector, Fiona Thorburn.

The caller was concerned that Murdo, a seven-month old male, tan and white Staffordshire bull terrier cross, had been beaten previously – as he had been spotted with swollen lumps on his head.

“When we attended, it was immediately apparent that Murdo had a noticeable swelling on his head,” inspector Thorburn said.

“He approached me wagging his tail and jumping up in a friendly manner but when McGregor approached him, he appeared scared. He cowered and urinated on the floor.”

She advised McGregor of her concerns for Murdo’s welfare and that veterinary attention must be sought.

The dog was then removed under section 32 of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 to be taken for a veterinary examination.

“The veterinary examination uncovered damage consistent with the traumatic injury reported to us by the witnesses, leaving Murdo with a large lump on his head.”

McGregor has been handed a ten-year ban on owning, keeping and working with animals, alongside a 108-day restriction of liberty order.

“Thanks to the care of our centre, Murdo has made a good recovery and has since found a loving home,” inspector Thorburn said.

“We are pleased that McGregor has received a ban given the severity of the beating that Murdo sustained.

“If anyone is concerned about an animal, they can contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”